ST. LOUIS – American Legion Post 422 in Soulard prepared a warm Thanksgiving meal for its heroes.
“I was alone and I thought, ‘Hey, why not go out and have Thanksgiving dinner with people?’” said Vietnam veteran Timithy Fisher.
Post has been composing this meal for 3 years.
“When they’re together, they can just open up and relax, knowing that they’re with someone who’s been through what they’ve been through,” said Eric Marlinghouse, deputy station commander.
Meanwhile, downtown, Edward Lee didn’t need to spend Thanksgiving alone.
“I am all for myself. I have God, that’s all. These services and contacts here – these are the people who help me,” said Lee, a person who has experienced homelessness on and off since childhood.
Minister Larry Rice of the New Life Evangelistic Center provided not only a delicious meal, but additionally hand warmers, tents and other necessities for people experiencing homelessness.
“We must thank God and show that gratitude by helping so many who are suffering,” Rice said.
Lee managed to get bus tickets that helped him get back on his feet.
“It takes me from AZ to work and to some of the classes I go to,” Lee said.
People organizing these meals may need assistance. Rice says people aren’t donating like they used to. The American Legion also needs to lift money to remain in its home in Soulard.
Andrea Maddox-Dallas helped launch the campaign, hoping to lift at the very least $4,000 by the end of the yr.
“There are lots of events here. It really is a neighborhood center and we just have to help them keep it open. They deserve it. They served our country and now it is time for us to return the favor and help them,” she said.
“It lets you know you’re not alone,” Fisher said.
Thanks to this support, Fisher and other veterinarians at all times have their family with them for the holidays.
